Background: A healthy diet can contribute
not only to development of cancer but also to longer-term outcomes, including
risk of recurrence. However, little is
known about cancer survivors’ beliefs about diet. Given the abundance of misreporting about diet
and cancer in the media and online, cancer survivors are at risk of
misinformation.

Aim: To explore cancer survivors’ beliefs about diet, the
impact on their behaviour, and sources of information.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews (n=19) were
conducted with adult
cancer survivors in the UK who had been diagnosed with any cancer in adulthood
and were not currently receiving treatment.
Participants were recruited from an online forum and posters at a cancer
centre. Interviews were analysed using
Thematic Analysis.

Results: Most
participants were aware that diet affects risk of developing cancer, but were
less clear about its role in recurrence. Nonetheless, their diagnosis appeared to be a
strong motivator for dietary change; but predominantly to promote general health.
Dietary changes were generally consistent
with recommendations, although dietary supplements were mentioned by several
participants. Few participants had received
professional advice about diet, and some had received conflicting recommendations. All participants were keen to know more. Several had sought other sources, with charities
seen as helpful and trustworthy. Many had
obtained information from internet and media sources, although they were cautious
about its value.

Conclusions: Cancer
survivors tended to hold beliefs about diet that were in line with
recommendations except for some misconceptions about the role of dietary
supplements. They felt unclear of the
role of diet in disease recurrence and wanted more advice. When dietary information is not provided by
health professionals, cancer survivors may turn to less reliable sources. There is scope for health professionals to
provide consistent guidance and to direct patients to reputable sources of
information on diet and survivorship.